Crockpot Hamburger Potato Casserole – Easy Ground Beef Dinner
If you’re craving something cozy, cheesy, and ridiculously easy, this Crockpot Hamburger Potato Casserole is about to become your new go-to. It’s one of those slow cooker comfort food recipes that practically cooks itself while you get on with life.
This hearty one-pot meal layers seasoned ground beef, thinly sliced potatoes, and melty cheddar cheese into a creamy, hands-off wonder. Inspired by the growing demand for budget-friendly ground beef casseroles, this dish saves up to an hour compared to oven-baked alternatives.
Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or Sunday meal prep, this recipe delivers major comfort without a sink full of dishes.
Table of Contents
Crockpot Hamburger Potato Casserole
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef for 5–7 minutes. Drain excess fat and stir in chopped onions, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Layer half the sliced potatoes in the bottom of the Crockpot. Add half the beef mixture and half the cheese. Repeat layers.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup and milk. Pour mixture evenly over the top of the layers.
- Cover and cook on LOW for 6–8 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours, until potatoes are tender and flavors are blended.
- Serve warm with fresh herbs, hot sauce, or steamed veggies on the side.
Notes
Ingredients For Crockpot Hamburger Potato Casserole
This casserole comes together with pantry staples you likely already have. Here’s what you need for 6 generous servings:
- 1 lb lean ground beef (or turkey for a lighter option)
- 4–5 medium potatoes, thinly sliced (russet or Yukon gold)
- 1 cup chopped onions
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup (or chicken)
- ½ cup milk (dairy or almond milk works)
- 1 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp onion powder
- Salt & pepper to taste
- Optional: 1 cup frozen peas or diced bell peppers for color and veggies
Want more beefy flavor inspiration? Try this rich and creamy Garlic Butter Bowtie Pasta With Beef another weeknight hit.
Prep & Cook Time
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Cook time: 6–8 hours on LOW or 3–4 hours on HIGH
- Total time: Just over 6 hours for tender, cheesy perfection
This Crockpot method eliminates the overbaked edges and uneven textures that often plague traditional casseroles.
Step-by-Step Instructions For Crockpot Hamburger Potato Casserole
1. Brown the Beef
In a skillet, brown your ground beef over medium heat (5–7 minutes). Drain any excess fat, then stir in onions and seasonings. This step adds a deeper, richer flavor that’s worth the few extra minutes.
2. Layer in the Crockpot
Layer half the potatoes in the bottom of your Crockpot. Then add half the beef-onion mixture and half the cheese. Repeat layers. In a small bowl, whisk the cream of mushroom soup with milk, then pour evenly over the top.
3. Let It Slow Cook
Cover and cook on LOW for 6–8 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours, until potatoes are fork-tender and flavors have blended beautifully.
Serving Suggestions
This Crockpot casserole pairs well with:
- A crisp side salad
- Steamed broccoli or green beans
- Hot sauce or ketchup for extra flavor
- Chives and fresh parsley (for that Insta-worthy look)
Pro tip: A sprinkle of fresh herbs adds a 20% “yum” factor, according to home cooks and it makes the meal feel special.
Want more easy meal ideas for your slow cooker? Explore our 10 Best Crockpot Chicken Recipes for inspiration.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcrowding the Crockpot: Stick to a standard 6-quart size for best results.
- Not draining the beef: Avoid grease overload.
- Thick potato slices: Thin slices cook faster and more evenly.
- Lifting the lid too often: Resist the urge each peek drops the temp!
Storage & Reheating
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days
- Freezer: Freeze in portions for up to 2 months
- Reheat: Microwave for 2–3 minutes or bake at 350°F for 15–20 minutes
This casserole is meal prep gold, just like our creamy Crockpot Crack Chicken that reheats like a dream.
Healthier Variations
Want to lighten things up? Here are some easy swaps:
- Use ground turkey instead of beef
- Sub cauliflower for potatoes to cut carbs
- Choose plant-based cheese and cream soup for a vegan version
- Try a gluten-free cream soup if needed
Need more beefy recipes for different diets? Don’t miss our Best Beef Recipes collection.
Why You’ll Love Crockpot Hamburger Potato Casserole
This Crockpot Hamburger Potato Casserole is:
- Easy to make
- Incredibly budget-friendly
- Satisfyingly cheesy
- Kid-approved and family-tested
- Perfect for cold nights and busy weeks
It’s right up there with Slow Cooker Chicken and Potatoes as one of the coziest one-pot wonders you’ll ever make.
Final Thoughts
Comforting, classic, and crazy delicious this Crockpot Hamburger Potato Casserole is everything you want in a weeknight dinner. It’s low-effort, high-reward, and endlessly customizable for your family’s tastes.
Make it once, and it’s guaranteed to earn a spot in your regular rotation just like our Cozy Crockpot Soup Recipes.
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FAQs For Crockpot Hamburger Potato Casserole
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble it in the Crockpot insert the night before. Refrigerate, then cook the next day.
Is this freezer-friendly?
Absolutely. Cool completely, portion, and freeze in bags or containers.
What if I don’t have a Crockpot?
You can bake this at 375°F, covered, for 45–50 minutes.
Can I add more veggies?
Sure! Add frozen peas, carrots, spinach, or zucchini.
Can I make this spicier?
Add jalapeños, red pepper flakes, or a drizzle of hot sauce.
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